Question

In which disease a membrane is formed in a patient's throat?

• A. Chickenpox
• B. Whooping cough
• C. Diphtheria
• D. Mumps

Hint:

Remember: Diphtheria → Pseudomembrane in throat; Chickenpox → Blisters on skin; Whooping cough → Severe coughing with "whoop" sound; Mumps → Swollen salivary glands.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the characteristic symptom.
The formation of a pseudomembrane (false membrane) in the throat is a distinctive clinical feature of a specific bacterial infection.
Step 2: Analysis of each disease.

(A) Chickenpox: Incorrect. Chickenpox is characterized by itchy, fluid-filled blisters all over the body. No membrane forms in the throat.
(B) Whooping cough: Incorrect. Whooping cough (pertussis) is characterized by severe coughing spells with a "whooping" sound. No membrane formation occurs.
(C) Diphtheria: Correct. Diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It produces a toxin that causes the formation of a thick, grayish pseudomembrane in the throat, tonsils, or nose. This membrane can obstruct breathing and is a hallmark sign of the disease.
(D) Mumps: Incorrect. Mumps is characterized by swelling of the parotid salivary glands. No membrane forms in the throat.
Step 3: Additional information about diphtheria.
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that affects the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. The pseudomembrane is composed of dead tissue, bacteria, and inflammatory cells. It can make breathing and swallowing difficult and is a medical emergency.
Final Answer: (C) Diphtheria.